Four-star OL Valentin considering many

Playing at Philadelphia (Pa.) Imhotep Institute Charter brought Johncarlo Valentin some attention initially. What made him a four-star offensive lineman was his work ethic and attention to detail. Now, after a stellar offseason, the 6-foot-4, 344-pound Valentin has close to 20 scholarship offers and more could be on the way.

"I've been talking to a lot of coaches and they want to offer me but they want me to come down and visit the campus first," he said. "That's where I stand right now."

There are a handful of schools that have caught Valentin's eye.

"It's not a top five but certain schools will make my list like Michigan, Virginia Tech and Temple," Valentin said. "I never said I have a top five but those are some that are making my list. They are recruiting me the hardest and I talk to them more than the rest.

"Virginia Tech is a very family oriented place," he said. "As soon as I walked in I felt really comfortable there and the coaches are very comforting. They all have a lot of experience. Talking to the players there, they all love it. There isn't a lot down there but you can really make something out of nothing.

"Michigan is hot," said Valentin. "I couldn't make it up on the last trip but that could have sealed the deal for Michigan. I'm still high on Michigan. I need to get up there with my family and if they like it that will probably be it for me. I'm still open to other schools until then."

Valentin is certainly keeping all his options on the table.

"I'm still very high on Auburn," he said. "I'm taking a visit down there some time in July to see Auburn and Alabama. Around July 20 I think. I also want to visit Penn State. They haven't offered yet. They really want me to come up there, meet me and see what kind of person I am. I have no problem with that.

"Georgia has been one of my dream schools since I was a kid," Valentin said. "I have family from there so it wouldn't be a big thing for me to go down there. I'm been talking to the coaches down there. I think we have a little bond going on right now."

Arizona State will host Valentin on September 17 for an official visit. He is also trying to set up a visit to Wisconsin.